Minnetonka - Family Place Internship

 St. David’s Center

Family Place

Internship/Practicum Description

We strive to create an inclusive environment in which all are seen, heard, and supported; encouraged to bring their whole authentic selves; and honored in their differences.
 
Agency Description:
St. David’s Center has been serving families and children for over 60 years.   Our mission is to build relationships that nurture the development of every child and family.  We provide the Western Suburbs and wider Hennepin County community with quality Early Childhood Education programs, Early Intervention and treatment programs and Life Phase Services.  Family Place is an early intervention treatment program for young children (3.5-6) who may have experienced trauma, an early loss of or lack of consistent caregivers and/or various forms of abuse or neglect.  These children struggle to manage their emotions and behavior at home, within their childcare/school setting and/or the larger community. 

Learning Opportunities: 

There are 2-3 three internship opportunities within the Family Place program throughout the year. 

Interns are required to be present within the day treatment classroom a minimum of three days per week, for a minimum of a six month time frame. Preference will be given to those students willing to complete a school year (September through May).  Summer block intern placements that are 40 hours/5 days per week are also considered.   In the day treatment classroom, students will:

• Learn and utilize therapeutic intervention and developmental repair techniques based on current and relevant research.
• Learn and participate in play therapy techniques.
• Assist in planning and implementing therapeutic activities in the day treatment milieu.

   In addition,

• Students will have the opportunity to participate in diagnostic assessments in coordination with other staff.
• Students will have the opportunity to observe and co-facilitate center based, in-home or Telehealth Family Therapy sessions and Family Skills Sessions.

Supervision and training:

• Students will participate in weekly clinical staffing’s and receive one hour/week of individual reflective supervision. Students will work in a small supportive team environment and gain knowledge, guidance and support from diverse team of seasoned mental health professionals.  Students will also have the opportunity to participate in program and agency trainings on a wide variety of relevant topics. Students are encouraged to bring in and integrate readings and assignments from their academic courses.

Qualifications:

• Master's Degree in Social Work ,Counseling or Marriage and Family Therapy
• Candidates should be in their final year of Graduate School
• Enrollment in an accredited graduate program of study

Student qualities desired for effective work in this program:  Work or life experience with children.  Ability to take direction and work as a team member, strong communication and written skills, ability to establish positive, respectful working relationships with a diverse population of adults and children.  Flexibility, creativity and the ability to think on your feet, problem solve well. 
 
 All new employees will be required to provide proof of being fully vaccinated (not to include booster doses at this time) or have an approved exemption before their start date.